Chinese Rattan Lighting: How Tight Should the Weave Be?

Chinese Rattan Lighting: How Tight Should the Weave Be?

You're looking at rattan lighting online. Some has tight weave, some loose. Which is better?

Here's what you need to know about rattan weave tightness.

The Short Answer

Neither is "better." It depends on the look you want and how the light will be used.

  • Tight weave: More durable, more privacy, less light through

  • Loose weave: More airy, more light through, more delicate

Tight Weave Rattan

Characteristics:

  • Weave is dense, little space between strands

  • More material used

  • Stronger, more durable

  • Less light passes through

  • More privacy (can't see through easily)

  • More formal look

Best for:

  • Pendant lights (where you want focused light)

  • Bedrooms (softer light)

  • Formal spaces

  • Areas where durability matters

Loose Weave Rattan

Characteristics:

  • Open spaces between strands

  • Less material used

  • More delicate (can snag)

  • More light passes through

  • Can see through (if that matters)

  • Casual, bohemian look

Best for:

  • Statement pieces (the shadow play is beautiful)

  • Living rooms

  • Spaces where you want lots of light

  • Casual, relaxed decor

What "Normal" Looks Like

Rattan weave tightness varies by:

Skill of weaver:

  • Experienced weavers can do consistent tight or loose

  • Inconsistent weave means less skill

Design intent:

  • Some designs call for tight

  • Some call for loose

  • Both can be beautiful

Quality markers:

  • Whatever the tightness, it should be consistent

  • No loose spots in a tight weave

  • No overly tight spots in a loose weave

What to Look For

In tight weave:

  • Even tension throughout

  • No gaps

  • Smooth surface

  • Durable feel

In loose weave:

  • Even spacing

  • Consistent pattern

  • No strands sticking out

  • Still feels secure (not floppy)

Red Flags

  • Inconsistent weave: Tight in some spots, loose in others (unless designed that way)

  • Loose strands: May snag or pull out

  • Uneven spacing: Looks sloppy

  • Warped shape: Weave tension should hold shape

How Weave Affects Light

Tight weave:

  • Light filters through softly

  • Less shadow pattern

  • More diffused glow

Loose weave:

  • More light passes through

  • Distinct shadow patterns on walls/ceiling

  • The shadows themselves become part of the design

Real Example: Tight Weave

I have a tight-weave rattan pendant in my dining room. The light is soft and warm, no harsh shadows. Very calming.

Real Example: Loose Weave

I have a loose-weave rattan floor lamp in my living room. The shadows on the wall are beautiful — they move as you walk past.

Price and Weave

Tight weave usually costs more:

  • More material

  • More time to weave

  • Higher skill required

But both can be quality.

The Bottom Line

Rattan weave tightness is about design, not quality — as long as it's consistent.

Choose tight for durability and soft light. Choose loose for shadow play and casual look.

Either way, look for even tension and good craftsmanship.

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